Critter Control commonly services Dallas and the surrounding area, including Allen, DeSoto, Farmers Branch, Flower Mound, Frisco, Garland, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving, Lewisville, McKinney, Mesquite, Plano, Richardson, Rockwall, and Rowlett.
Q&A with Local Franchisee:
What are some of the most common wildlife issues that homeowners face in your area?
Rats, mice, squirrels, raccoons, and opossums.
How do the seasons affect wildlife activity in your area?
Summer is a season of building nests and preparing for fall, winter, and the next spring season. Fall, winter, and spring are seasons of elevated animal activity in homes.
Any prevention tips for residents in your area?
Keep property in good condition. Dilapidated properties have a tendency to have more animal entry points. Keeping trash and clutter cleaned out is essential to prevent animal shelter and the gathering of nesting material.
When should homeowners call Critter Control?
Homeowners should call Critter Control when animal issues are suspected or for simple peace of mind, as inspections are free.
Wildlife Problems in Dallas, TX
The urban sprawl of Dallas, TX, offers plenty of opportunities for people and pests to thrive. While new construction brings jobs and housing to the area, residents still deal with nuisance animals. Several wildlife pests cause trouble for homeowners.
Squirrels in the House
Broken fascia boards and damaged shingles provide entry points for squirrel infestations. Branches overhanging the roofs of Texas homes make it even easier for squirrels to find a way indoors. These pests are agile climbers, which makes them tough to keep away.
Raccoon Neighbors
In their natural habitats, raccoons avoid people. However, in cities like Dallas, the pests grow used to humans and learn not to fear them. A bold raccoon will forage in gardens, destroy bird feeders, rip open garbage bags, and even enter homes through pet doors to find a meal.
Texas Bats
Bats are susceptible to the rabies virus, and the risk of human infection increases when the animals roost in or around houses. Bat bites don't always leave a clear mark, so Dallas residents who come into contact with bats should seek medical attention.
Deer
White-tailed deer are all too common in populated areas. Their presence has safety, health, and economic impacts. Potential issues include:
- Vehicle vs. deer accidents on roadways
- Increased numbers of ticks carrying Lyme disease
- Damage to gardens and ornamental plants
Coyotes
Expanding suburbs near Dallas have also pushed coyotes closer to people. These animals sometimes assume garbage cans are an invitation to forage for food. A coyote can quickly become comfortable in residential areas and may attack pets.
Wild Hogs
The limited number of cold-weather days in Texas allows wild hogs to thrive in the region. They destroy plants and can also transmit brucellosis to people.
Other Common Pests in Dallas
When searching for meals and shelter, mice often move indoors. These rodents can spread illnesses and damage structures. Outside, Texas homeowners may encounter snakes in gardens and wood piles. Most local varieties are harmless, but several venomous snakes also live in the area.